1 Answer

Australia’s cultural diversity is a reflection of Australia’s immigration policy over the last 50 years. • Since 1945 over 6 million people from other countries have migrated to Australia • In the early years after the war the main source of immigrants were European countries, UK, Ireland, Greece, and Italy. • In 2006/2007 the primary source has significantly changed : • UK (16%) • New Zealand (12%) • China (11%) • India (10%) • Southeast Asia (13%) • European, African and Middle Eastern (38%). • The Chinese are now the third-largest largest group. • Indian immigrants are rapidly catching the Chinese, and will probably surpass them. • Within Southeast Asia the Philippines is the largest group, followed by Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand. • Migrants have been crucial to building Australia’s strong and robust economy – helping to : • create its national infrastructure; • contributing new ideas and technology; • Fostering knowledge of other cultures, languages, foods and lifestyles.